If you loved the tension and survival thriller 'Surrounded' (2023), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows with similar themes of isolation, danger, and high-stakes survival. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers or action-packed survival stories, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Edge (1997)
Description: A survival story set in the Alaskan wilderness, where the characters must battle the elements, wildlife, and their own psychological demons. The film's tension and themes of human resilience are central to its narrative.
Fact: The bear attack scenes were so realistic that they were later studied by survival experts for their accuracy.


Into the Wild (2007)
Description: A poignant story of a young man who abandons civilization to live in the Alaskan wilderness, exploring themes of freedom, isolation, and self-discovery. The film's emotional and philosophical depth is unforgettable.
Fact: The bus where the protagonist lived in Alaska became a pilgrimage site for fans, though it was later removed due to safety concerns.


The Way Back (2010)
Description: A harrowing tale of endurance and survival, following a group of prisoners who escape a Siberian gulag and trek across treacherous terrain. The film's focus on physical and mental fortitude is deeply impactful.
Fact: The story is inspired by real events, though its historical accuracy has been debated by scholars.


127 Hours (2010)
Description: A true story of survival and human resilience, where a hiker is trapped in a remote canyon and must make an unthinkable choice to survive. The film's claustrophobic tension and emotional weight are powerful.
Fact: The real-life incident inspired many hikers to leave notes about their whereabouts, a practice now known as 'Aron's Law.'


The Revenant (2015)
Description: A gripping survival drama set in the wilderness, showcasing the protagonist's relentless struggle against nature and human adversaries. The film's raw and immersive depiction of survival against overwhelming odds resonates deeply.
Fact: The film was shot using only natural light to enhance its realism, and Leonardo DiCaprio reportedly ate raw bison liver for a scene.


The Mountain Between Us (2017)
Description: A survival romance set in a remote, snowbound mountain range, where two strangers must rely on each other to stay alive. The film blends emotional depth with the harsh realities of wilderness survival.
Fact: The actors performed many of their own stunts, including scenes in freezing cold and high altitudes.


The Survivalist (2015)
Description: A post-apocalyptic thriller centered on a man living off the grid, forced to confront threats both natural and human. The film's stark realism and tension-filled narrative make it a standout.
Fact: The movie was made on a very low budget, with much of the dialogue improvised by the actors.


Everest (2015)
Description: A dramatic retelling of a real-life disaster on Mount Everest, highlighting the perilous challenges of high-altitude survival. The film's intense portrayal of human vulnerability in extreme conditions is gripping.
Fact: Some scenes were filmed at Everest Base Camp, and the cast endured freezing temperatures to capture the realism.


Wind River (2017)
Description: A tense thriller set in a harsh, snow-covered landscape, focusing on isolation, survival, and the fight against both human and environmental threats. The film's bleak atmosphere and emotional intensity make it a compelling watch.
Fact: The film is based on real-life cases of missing Native American women, bringing attention to an often-overlooked issue.


Arctic (2018)
Description: A minimalist survival story set in the Arctic, where the protagonist must make life-or-death decisions in an unforgiving environment. The film's quiet intensity and focus on sheer willpower are striking.
Fact: The film was shot in Iceland, and the crew faced extreme weather conditions during production.
